Principal Quality Inspector - Inspection (Dimensional Control)

Our client, a leading organisation in the defence and security sector, is seeking an experienced Quality Inspector to support a major submarine programme in Barrow. This role offers the opportunity to undertake specialist inspection activities across complex engineering products and systems, ensuring the highest standards of quality are maintained throughout the build process.

Key Responsibilities:

• Undertake product inspections during build activities in accordance with approved Inspection and Test Plans (ITPs)
• Carry out complex and specialist quality inspection activities within your area of expertise, including disciplines such as Dimensional Control, Electrical, Paint, Pipe/Mechanical, Radiography, Structural/Steelwork, Non-Destructive Examination (NDE), Receipt Inspection, Sheet Metalwork, and Acoustic Tiling
• Utilise calibrated measuring equipment to assess product tolerances and identify any non-conformances
• Lead the verification of non-conformances and support quality investigations to determine root causes and corrective actions
• Conduct customer walk-rounds, conditions management activities, and quality audits
• Record and report inspection results using agreed systems and processes, identifying trends to support continuous improvement initiatives
• Support the development, maintenance, and improvement of quality processes, procedures, and inspection methodologies
• Provide coaching and mentoring to junior members of the Quality team within your specialist discipline
• Build effective working relationships with engineering, manufacturing, programme, and customer stakeholders
• Represent the Quality function at reviews and meetings, influencing quality objectives and driving best practice
• Support Lessons from Experience (LfE) activities and contribute to ongoing programme improvement
• Promote a strong Safety, Health and Environment (SHE) culture across all activities

Job Requirements:

• Experience within a Quality Inspection role in a manufacturing, engineering, aerospace, marine, or defence environment
• Knowledge of ISO 9001 and/or EN9100 quality standards
• Subject Matter Expertise within a specialist quality discipline, with a broad understanding of wider quality functions
• Ability to interpret engineering drawings, specifications, procedures, and contractual requirements
• Experience using calibrated measuring equipment and inspection tools
• Strong understanding of non-conformance management, quality investigations, and continuous improvement methodologies
• Working knowledge of Root Cause Analysis techniques such as 5 Whys, Fishbone Diagrams, Relationship Diagrams, and Six Sigma principles
• Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills with the ability to influence cross-functional teams
• Understanding of Business Management Systems, Operational Frameworks, and Operational Assurance processes
• Knowledge of product safety and export control requirements such as ITAR would be advantageous

Qualifications:

• NC or HNC qualification in a relevant engineering or technical discipline, or equivalent experience
• Time-served apprenticeship or trade background within a relevant engineering discipline is highly desirable

Role Details:

• Based in Barrow
• 37 hours per week
• 4 days a week onsite supporting a critical submarine programme
• Opportunity to work across a range of specialist quality disciplines and advanced engineering technologies